“Shade LA” includes students from USC and UCLA collaborating to expand shade infrastructure in Los Angeles. (photo courtesy of Secondary Image/Stephen Gee for USC)

USC announced “ShadeLA,” a bold new collaborative effort to cool Los Angeles by expanding tree canopy and shade infrastructure in key public and community spaces.

With major sporting events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup, 2027 Super Bowl and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games on the horizon – and as climate change drives more frequent and intense heat waves – ShadeLA aims to keep Angelenos and visitors safe while leaving a lasting legacy of resilience.

ShadeLA is led by USC Dornsife Public Exchange in collaboration with UCLA Luskin Center for Innovation, and with participation by the city of Los Angeles, county of Los Angeles Chief Sustainability Office, L.A. Metro and the Los Angeles Organizing Committee for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“For years, USC Dornsife Public Exchange has been leading the way on sustainable urban forestry. Now, we’re proud to be spearheading ShadeLA, an important initiative that leverages our cutting-edge research to improve quality of life for all of us in Los Angeles,” USC Interim President Beong-Soo Kim said.

“Extreme heat continues to impact the lives of the people of Los Angeles, and this partnership empowers our communities to come together, build resilience and cool our neighborhoods. As we prepare to welcome the world, this initiative will leave a lasting legacy for Angelenos for years to come,” Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said.

L.A. will soon welcome the world for major global sporting events. In 2026, SoFi Stadium will host eight FIFA World Cup matches, including the U.S. men’s national team opener. In 2028, Los Angeles will host the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

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